The Stay-At-Home Survival Guide: Melissa Stanton

Let me start of by saying that I LOVED this book. The Stay-At-Home Survival Guide by Melissa Stanton is definitely a must read for anyone who is a stay at home Mom, work at home Mom, or Mom's who are even thinking of becoming one. This book talks about the wonderful side of staying at home right along with the challenges that you will face. Not only financially, but mentally and emotionally as well. I never felt like I was being preached at while reading this book but only encouraged.

I loved how Melissa Stanton writes the truth of what being at home with your children really is. We have moments of complete and utter joy in the morning but my the afternoon we want to run for the hills. Many Mom's feel guilty about this but reading this book made me realize I am not the only one and my "Mommy guilt" really is normal. Melissa surveyed Mom's from all walks of life while researching for the book. You will be able to connect with these Mom's in some way because most have been where we are at some point in their lives. I found my self thinking "right on sister" at many points during this book!! It is full of advice, strategies, and stories that will make you realize that being at home with your children may not be so bad after all.

I know that my biggest challenge as a stay at home Mom is feeling isolated from other adults. I not only stay at home with Wesley and Lani but I have a home child care as well. I feel stuck here most days and pretty bored as well. This book explains the importance of getting out alone and also spending time with friends. I read the chapter titled "You Gotta Have Friends" over and over. Luckily I have a husband who encourages me to get out as much as I need. Even if it's just for a quick trip to Wal-Mart. I feel recharged after these moments and I know that it makes me a better Mom to Wesley and Lani and certainly a better wife to Michael.

I would like to pass along my copy of the book to one of my readers. Just leave a comment on this post and I will enter you in the drawing. I will choose the winner on June 18th at 9pm (est).